Explaining family law

Changing the locks might seem like the obvious solution after a separation, but the reality is often more complicated.In this episode, Jen Is joined by Mills & Reeve Associate Anthony Cule, where they explore why changing the locks may not address the underlying problem and what to think about before taking that step. The discussion focuses on understanding what's driving the request, including whether it's about privacy or safety, and encourages looking beyond the immediate solution. It also covers the importance of trying to reach an agreement with the other property owner, including whether they will return or, if they are still living in the property, whether they would agree to move out. The episode finishes by considering what happens to the property in the long term. To find out more about how we can help, visit: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/divorce-and-separation/Our content explainedEvery piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

One of the many questions people ask after divorce is whether they can change their will as soon as they separate, or if they have to wait until the divorce is finalised.In this episode, Tim is joined by Mills & Reeve Associate Abbie Green, who has experience in both family and private client teams, to explain why reviewing your will immediately on separation is advised and how a codicil can provide a short-term fix while finances are still being agreed.Together they discuss what can happen if a will isn’t updated during separation, including an ex-spouse inheriting or acting as executor or trustee, and how the law treats a former spouse once divorce is final. The conversation also covers risks like intestacy, possible claims by children or dependents, aligning wills with financial orders, and updating lasting powers of attorney, pension nominations, and life insurance.Find out more about our team can help: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/divorce-and-separation/Our content explainedEvery piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

One of the many questions people ask after divorce is whether their name can be changed. In this episode, Tim Whitney is joined by Mills & Reeve Principal Associate Kerry Haugh, to explain what happens to names after separation and divorce. Kerry confirms that divorce does not automatically change a person’s name, and that you can keep your married name if you wish.  She outlines how to revert to a maiden or previous name by providing the final order (or decree absolute) alongside a marriage certificate and explains that a deed poll is a written declaration only needed when changing to a new name that isn’t a return to a previous one. The episode also covers how changing a child’s name requires agreement from everyone with parental responsibility, or a court application for a specific issue order.Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DdvFkftUhD8Our content explainedEvery piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

In this episode of the Explaining Family Law podcast, Jen is joined by Mills & Reeve Associate Rebecca Latham to discuss what happens when separated parents want to take a child abroad on holiday.They explain that the key starting point is parental responsibility and that, in most cases, consent from everyone with parental responsibility is needed for each trip, ideally confirmed in writing with full travel details and reassurance about return. Rebecca outlines the main exception where a child arrangements order states the child lives with one parent, allowing travel abroad for up to 28 days without the other parent’s consent unless the order says otherwise.The episode also covers what to do if consent is refused, including discussion, mediation, solicitor involvement, and applying to court for a specific issue order, as well as common concerns such as safety, abduction risks, dual citizenship, and travel to non-Hague Convention countries.Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CCUqTsBvMZMTo find out more about how we can help, visit: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/children/holidays-abroad/Our content explainedEvery piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

Working with a lawyer during separation can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time.In this episode, Tim and Jen share their top tips for making the process smoother and more effective. They break down three key areas: preparing for your first meeting, communicating efficiently with your lawyer, and collaborating on documents.The discussion covers practical advice on setting meeting expectations, organising information, managing communication preferences, and handling financial disclosure.Listeners will learn how to personalise their approach, reduce costs, and make the legal process less overwhelming, turning a challenging time into a more manageable experience.Find out more how our family lawyers can help you through separation: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/divorce-and-separation/Our content explainedEvery piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.